As part of our stewardship series, Be the Light, we are providing a weekly Study Companion for Small Groups and Personal Reflection to help us consider how God’s light shines through our words, choices, service, and generosity.

Download the complete Be the Light: A Study Companion for Small Groups & Personal Reflection here. Enjoy this week’s guide below:

Opening Reflection

In Matthew 25, Jesus identifies himself with people who are hungry, thirsty, strangers, without adequate clothing, sick, and imprisoned. Those who serve them are surprised to discover that they have encountered Christ. Discipleship becomes visible through concrete acts of mercy, reminding us that love of God and love of neighbor cannot be separated.

Micah speaks to a community tempted to substitute impressive worship for faithful living. God calls us to do justice, embrace faithful love, and walk humbly with God. Mercy responds to immediate suffering, while justice confronts the barriers that cause and sustain it. God has entrusted Trinity with people, resources, relationships, facilities, influence, and the Gospel. We use these gifts faithfully when our love moves beyond the walls of the church and becomes visible in the world.

Scripture Focus

Matthew 25:31–40

Micah 6:6–8

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think the people in Jesus’ story were surprised that they had served Christ?
2. How does seeing Christ in our neighbors change the way we understand mission?
3. Where do you see hunger, loneliness, injustice, illness, or exclusion in our community?
4. How can Trinity use its people and resources to respond more faithfully?
5. What is the relationship between meeting immediate needs and removing the barriers that create them?
6. Which of Trinity’s partnerships helps you see stewardship becoming visible action?

Stewardship Invitation

Ask Jesus to help you see your community through his eyes. Identify one way you can respond to someone who is struggling or overlooked through mercy, justice, generosity, or relationship.

For Further Reflection

Think about the people and places you encounter each week. Where might Christ be waiting to meet you through someone who is hungry, lonely, excluded, struggling, or overlooked?

Closing Prayer

Jesus, open our eyes to recognize you in the people around us. Move our love beyond words and beyond the walls of the church. Use our hands, resources, and shared ministry to feed, welcome, visit, encourage, and seek justice in your name. Amen.

Rev. Carrie Jones, Preaching